Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

Hello, today is currently Sunday the 19th, and I'm a little behind looking for advice, whereas my first court appearance is scheduled for 9am this upcoming Tuesday. The case is a charge of 1 count commercial burglary, felony, currently out on bond with 9 days time served. I have been appointed a public defender, and I do not believe he has my best interest in mind and would like to seek a hired attorney, but obviously I'm limited on time constraints. I've been through this once before, but I can't quite remember proper terminology or how to pursue doing it. I suppose first I would need to notify the public defender and let him know my intentions, but my main concern is the arraignment. Briefly explain to the judge im still seeking council? I believe the last time, he entered a plea of not guilty on my behalf, set a court-date, and filed a change of plea? Does any of that sound correct? So my question directly would be how to proceed.


Asked on 6/18/11, 11:38 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Amir Ladan The Ladan Law Firm, P.A.

The best practice is to simply allow your PD to enter a plea of not guilty on your behalf & set the matter for Pre Trial. Once you've retained private counsel, the court will discharge your PD & will enter an order substituting your attorney for the PD.

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Answered on 6/19/11, 10:46 am


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